Benefit cuts may harm Northern Ireland's vulnerable citizens

The UK government plans to cut spending on health and disability benefits, including making it harder to qualify for Personal Independence Payment (PIP). This change aims to align with tax and spending rules. Currently, nearly 218,000 people in Northern Ireland receive PIP, with many claiming due to anxiety and depression. The proposed changes could affect those who rely on this support for daily living and mobility. Northern Ireland has a high economic inactivity rate, with 318,000 people not working, including 118,000 due to long-term sickness. This trend has worsened since 2019, with record levels of long-term sickness reported.